What’s the CliffsNotes version on why they are so important?
The chromosomes are where all our genetic material is packaged, in the form ofDNA.
Telomeres are very special caps at the ends of each chromosome that protect against deterioration.
The protective end deteriorates?
It wears down and has to build back up again.
And that’s a good thing?
It’s not 100 percent protection, but it’s an underlying factor.
What can a person do to stop the erosion?
Exercise, do really interesting activities, don’t have long-term chronic stress.
You’ve done a lot of studies on stress.
What did you learn?
Is there a key to effective exercise?
A big study categorized people: Do you do vigorous exercise?
Do you do moderate exercise?
Do you cycle or walk to work?
Do you do weight-bearing exercises?
It was simply additive; the more types of exercise you did, the better the results.
So what do you do?
I use the gym and an elliptical trainer at home.
I was very cunning.
I put the elliptical in front of the TV so I could watch episodes ofThe Big Bang Theory.
And I’m happy to tell you: I now walk to work.
What have you learned about meditation and aging?
We knew that when the stress got worse, the telomeres got worse.
The question was: Could you get better, with real improvements?
How has your work changed your thinking about aging?
Well, it’s all about the quality of your life.
What’s the big unanswered question that’s driving you now?
People come up to me and say, “Stress is having terrible effects on my telomeres.”
They’re using the word personally.
But could it be extended to a lens through which to look at broader societal issues?
That’s the interesting question.
Hugh Delehanty is a freelance journalist and former editor in chief with AARP Publications.
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